Soviet space dogs

During the 1950s and 1960s the USSR used dogs for sub-orbital and orbital space flights to determine whether human spaceflight was feasible. In this period, the Soviet Union launched missions with passenger slots for at least 57 dogs. The number of dogs in space is smaller, as some dogs flew more than once. Most survived; the few that died were lost mostly through technical failures, according to the parameters of the test. A notable exception is Laika, the first dog to be sent into orbit, whose death was expected from the outset.

Training

Dogs were the preferred animal for the experiments because scientists felt dogs were well suited to endure long periods of inactivity. As part of their training, they were confined in small boxes for 15–20 days at a time. Stray dogs, rather than animals accustomed to living in a house, were chosen because the scientists felt they would be able to tolerate the rigorous and extreme stresses of space flight better than other dogs. Female dogs were used because of their temperament and because the suit the dogs wore in order to collect urine and feces was equipped with a special device, designed to work only with females.

Mushka (horse)

Mushka is owned by Brushwood Stable, and was bred by Diane Snowden. She is currently trained by William I. Mott and is most recognized for winning the Grade one Spinster Stakes in 2009. Following this win, Mushka traveled to Santa Anita Park, California for the 26th running of the Breeders' Cup Ladies' Classic, in which she placed second.

She was originally owned and campaign by Zayat Stables, but was purchased by Abbott Bloodstock, on behalf of Brushwood Stable, for $2.4 million at the 2008 Keeneland November Sales.

References